Nagpur: GMR Nagpur International Airport Limited (GNIAL) is preparing for a comprehensive terminal refurbishment at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport, aimed at modernising infrastructure and enhancing the passenger experience.GNIAL chief executive officer Srikanth Bhandarkar said the company has implemented several passenger-centric improvements over the past three months across key passenger touchpoints.He added that preparations for a major terminal upgrade are underway, with financial closure achieved, design development progressing and contractors onboarded. The project will commence once the requisite regulatory clearances are obtained.The proposed refurbishment will cover around 19,500 sqm of the existing terminal. Plans include the installation of four self-bag-drop counters and five self-check-in kiosks, the addition of four X-ray machines, expansion of the forecourt kerb area, upgraded washrooms, dedicated domestic and international lounges, and an increase in bus boarding gates from two to four.GNIAL said the first phase of the refurbishment is expected to be completed within 12 to 18 months from the start of work, subject to approvals and project scheduling.As part of recent upgrades, the airport has deployed passenger support associates and queue managers at key locations, enhanced Digi Yatra facial-recognition processing, improved terminal lighting and landscaping, installed new carpets at aerobridges, and introduced fragrance systems across the terminal.The airport operator has also strengthened security screening with additional trays and preparation tables, improved trolley and baggage services, enhanced housekeeping and pest-control measures, and ensured round-the-clock availability of doctors, paramedics and technicians for passenger care.
